News Release

Office of the Attorney GeneralJustice and Public Safety

Coroner’s inquest ordered

24 November 2017

FREDERICTON (GNB) – Chief Coroner Gregory Forestell has been ordered and directed by the Attorney General and the minister of Justice and Public Safety to hold an inquest into the death of Michel Vienneau pursuant to sections 7 and 8(1) of the Coroners Act.

The death of Vienneau occurred in Bathurst on Jan. 12, 2015.

An inquest is a formal court proceeding that allows for public presentation of all evidence relating to a death.

The coroner does not assign responsibility or blame for a death. The report of an investigation or inquest determines the identity of the deceased and clarifies the facts and circumstances of the death.

During an inquest, there is an opportunity to make recommendations for preventing such deaths in the future.

This inquest will provide a forum for a full review of the circumstances and will allow a jury to consider preventative measures.

The presiding coroner, schedule and location are yet to be determined. The inquest date will be announced once confirmed. No further information is available at this time.

The New Brunswick Coroner Service is an independent fact-finding agency that may not make any finding of legal responsibility.

24-11-17

Media Contact(s)

Communications, Office of the Attorney General, 506-444-2447.

Communications, Department of Justice and Public Safety, 506-453-2994.